Episode 40: Breastfeeding Expectations, Boundaries and Manners

In this episode of the Nourishing Birth and Beyond podcast, speak with Amy to explore the complexities of breastfeeding, including societal expectations, personal experiences, and the challenges faced by parents. We discuss the importance of understanding individual needs and preferences, the role of breastfeeding in child development, and the societal pressures that can influence parenting decisions. The conversation also touches on the broader context of parenting, including setting boundaries, the importance of support systems, and the need for flexible approaches to child-rearing.

In this episode of the podcast we talk about:

• The complexities of breastfeeding, addressing societal expectations and personal experiences.
• The need for personalized support tailored to individual needs and preferences in parenting.
• The role of breastfeeding in child development and the societal pressures influencing parenting decisions.
• Broader parenting topics, such as setting boundaries and the importance of support systems.
• The need for flexible approaches to child-rearing, acknowledging the unique challenges each family faces.

Sound bites from this episode:

“We know that human milk constantly tastes different. So it helps a child have a broader palette, whereas formula tastes the exact same every single time.”

 “The World Health Organization recommends nursing and breastfeeding up to age 2. As that first two years, it’s the most beneficial and it really sets a child’s brain and development up for the optimal success.”

“We don’t see that many babies feeding. And really we need to see more and more babies feeding so that people kind of, it’s the norm. Whereas we’re a bottle feeding society.”

“We are a society that thinks we can comment on what other people do with their bodies and that’s wild.”